The fighting in Ethiopia northern region, Tigray, is approaching the one-week mark. the Ethiopian military is battling the regional government of Tigray after tensions brewed in the last few weeks. There is news of the Ethiopian military capturing territory in Tigray.
There is no confirmed number of casualties. A communications blackout is making it difficult to verify actual numbers.
The African Union on Tuesday called for an immediate ceasefire. The AU block said the following:
The chairperson [Moussa Faki Mahamat] appeals for the immediate cessation of hostilities and calls on parties to respect human rights and ensure the protection of civilians,
Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed said he was not ignoring international concerns and described the clashes as "law enforcement operations". On Sunday, he announced some reshuffling in the state's military and security authorities.
Ahmed also accused Eritrea of sending troops to Tigray. It is yet unknown what role Eritrea, which previously fought a war with Ethiopia, would play in the domestic strive of Ethiopia.
Several experts have expressed concerns on national stability and the possibility of a wave of refugees. The Sudanese News Agency reported that a number of refugees have crossed the border into Sudan.
Photo: A member of Tigray police is pictured at a checkpoint in the region [File: AFP]
Source: Commonspace.eu with agencies
